The Presidency has come out swinging in response to recent criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms by prominent figures, including Pastor Tunde Bakare and Bishop Matthew Kukah. Both clerics had voiced concerns over the impact and direction of Tinubu’s policies, warning that the administration’s approach was worsening hardship for ordinary Nigerians and questioning the speed and scope of the reforms.
However, the Presidency, through its Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, rejected these criticisms as unfounded, insisting that Tinubu’s reform agenda is not only necessary but also essential for Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth. The government maintained that the economic situation inherited by President Tinubu demanded urgent and decisive action, especially regarding the removal of fuel subsidies and the overhaul of the foreign exchange market. Onanuga argued that no responsible leader would allow such “economic disorders” to persist, stressing that the reforms are designed to deliver long-term benefits even if they cause short-term discomfort.
The administration also pointed to the questionable records of some critics, referencing past economic policies and alleged failures during previous administrations. The Presidency emphasized that while calls for reforms with a “human face” are valid, the current government has already prioritized support for vulnerable Nigerians through targeted social safety nets and relief measures.
Despite the backlash from Bakare, Kukah, and other opposition voices, Tinubu’s team insists that the Renewed Hope Agenda is a comprehensive plan to restore trust in governance, strengthen key sectors like education and healthcare, and ultimately deliver a more prosperous and equitable future for all Nigerians. The government called for patience and collective effort, assuring citizens that the difficult reforms underway are aimed at reversing years of mismanagement and putting Nigeria on a sustainable path to growth.
